- Bill
- HB 236 (GA 135)
- Our position
- Support
- Status
- Enacted
- Sponsors
- Rep. M. Miller, Rep. Lear
HB 236 was SIGNED into LAW on 12-19-24 and will be effective 90 days from signing.
After two long years of fighting to maintain the integrity of HB 236, we were able to see the “Never Alone Act” officially signed into law on Wednesday, December 12, 2024.
Families across the state, can finally rest assured that during a pandemic they are guaranteed access to an advocate of their choice in the room at ALL times and with “every reasonable effort” during non-emergencies.
Families and patients will receive notice of their visitation rights when they enter the hospital.
Advocates who are unable to mask due to a medical or mental health condition WILL be allowed to be with their loved one with a note from a wide range of health providers.
Advocates who are immediate family/ POA/ guardian etc.. can file for injunctive relief if at any time they are denied access to their loved one and if the facility is found in violation of the law, they will be reimbursed for their court fees.
THANK YOU to our bill Sponsors Representatives Melanie Miller and Beth Lear. THANK YOU to the patients, families and health providers who came to give in person testimony, like Derek Caulkins, Julie Smith, Mary Malek, PhD Psychologist, and to the many advocates who submitted written testimony throughout this process.
Together, we have successfully insured that no Ohioan will ever have to suffer with illness or die alone, because every patient deserves an advocate in the room.
What Does HB 236 Do?
HB 236 (The Never Alone Act – sponsors: M. Miller and Lear) is a bill that ensures every patient in a hospital, nursing home, or VA hospital has access to an on-site advocate, during a pandemic or public health orders and that during non-emergency times, “every reasonable effort” will be made to have an advocate present in the room. HB 236 has a provision to allow for injunctive relief so you can get in to see your loved one quickly if the facility is violating your advocate rights. If the facility is found to have violated your right to be present then they are responsible for your legal costs.
Read the language and status for HB 236 here: https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/135/hb236